This is our brief and crisp Honda EU3000is Review.
I have also researched customer reviews and recalls to give you the best insight on whether this Honda EU3000iS is worth buying.
Honda EU3000iS portable inverter generator features a commercial-grade GX200 engine.
This engine makes this generator a reliable and durable option for both residential and commercial use.
This generator has exclusive eco throttle, mechanical decompression system, and CO Minder feature.
It has a low operating noise level i.e 50 DB at quarter load. It also features oil alert (Low oil shutdown) and parallel capability.
It also comes with a Handy version with a smaller fuel tank i.e. Honda EU3000i generator. This generator is super light and compact in size.
If you are not familiar with any of the fancy terms. Don’t worry we have explained them all in this Honda EU3000is generator review.
So,
What engine is in a Honda EU3000iS?
Is a Honda generator worth the extra money?
What can a 3000-watt Honda generator run?
What is the difference between Honda 3000i and 3000is?
I have answered all these questions and reviewed key features and must-haves for Honda EU3000iS.
I have also added alternatives with different power, price, and features with our verdict in this Honda EU3000is review.
Keep reading…
Honda EU3000is Generator Overview
Honda Power Equipment is one of the most trusted and reliable portable generator brands. Their power tools are feature-packed with the best engine and exclusive features.
The Honda EU3000iS inverter generator features a 196cc Honda GX200 commercial engine. If you compare this engine with other portable generator engines, you will find that it is way too powerful.
This Honda portable generator uses inverter technology to produce clean power (stable power). Clean Power has fewer voltage spikes and is ideal for sensitive electronics.
Let’s see how this Honda inverter generator performs against important aspects.
Power Output and Tank Size
Portable generators come in a wide selection of output power. So, you should calculate your power requirement before you set out on the quest for the best portable generator.
Knowing your power need will filter that long list of portable generators to a convenient number. So, you won’t end up with a generator with too much power or one with less power.
Honda EU3000iS produces 3000-watts starting power and 2800-watts rated power operating on gasoline.
This inverter generator produces plenty of power for your household electrical appliances.
This generator can also be an important addition to your camping, tailgating, and travel trailer.
A bigger tank size might increase runtime hours in a single tank of fuel. But, it does not improve the fuel economy of the generator.
And it increases the size and weight of the generator, thus reducing its portability.
Honda EU3000iS has a fuel tank capacity of 3.4 gallons.
Fuel Efficiency and Fuel Type
The efficiency of a portable generator is a broad term. It depends on many factors such as power output, runtime hours, fuel economy, etc.
If I have to explain in simple terms. Then an efficient generator has more power output and runtime hours on a specific fuel quantity.
The Honda EU3000iS inverter generator can run up to 19.6 hours at a quarter load on a single tank of gasoline. When operating at rated load this generator can run up to 6.9 hours.
An alternate fuel option comes in handy when either of the fuel option supply gets disrupted.
Portable generators with dual-fuel technology support two fuel options i.e. gasoline and propane. Propane is cheaper and burns cleaner.
This Honda 3000-watt generator does not have dual-fuel capability.
Safety Features
Proper safety measures are essential when operating a portable generator. All generators produce electric power and harmful gases by combustion.
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and circuit breakers provide protection from any electrical incidents.
When the generator operates in scarcity of air, CO (Carbon Monoxide) gets produced. This gas is deadly. It is also known as a silent killer. 🔪
EPA and CARB regulate emission guidelines for portable generators. A portable generator has to be EPA and CARB-compliant to sell in 50 states.
EPA is Environmental Protection Agency and CARB is California Air Resource Board.
This Honda 3000-watt generator is EPA and CARB-compliant. It is also equipped with advanced CO Minder technology.
CO Minder detects harmful levels of CO near the generator. If levels cross standard limits then it shuts off the engine immediately.
Honda EU3000iS generator also features a USDA-qualified spark arrestor/muffler. It ensures safety when the generator is being operated in a park or a forest area.
Quiet Operation
Honda generators are famous for their low operating noise level. Also, portable generators with inverter technology have lower noise levels.
Loud generators can be invasive and will definitely steal your peace of mind. A noisy generator is not neighbor-friendly.
This super quiet generator produces 50 DB at a quarter load. This noise level is similar to an average noise conversation.
This makes it ideal for camping, RV, and other tasks that need a quiet operation.
Durability & Portability
Durability is the ability of a generator to perform in extreme conditions. A durable generator promises a longer lifespan.
Honda EU3000iS generator features a GX200 commercial engine. This 196cc engine is fuel-efficient and durable.
Automatic low oil level shutdown protects this engine from any damage from low oil levels. This feature shuts down the engine when a low oil level gets detected.
This generator is circuit operated. It protects the engine from overload conditions ensuring a longer lifespan.
This generator is compact in size and not too heavy. It also comes with a wheel kit. Built-in wheels make moving this generator easy.
Weight: 130.7 lbs
Dimensions: 25.9” x 17.6” x 22.0” (L X W X H)
A handy version of this generator is also available. Its specs are the same as the Honda EU3000iS specs. But, it comes with a smaller fuel tank i.e. Honda EU3000i.
It weighs just 78 lbs and has a tank capacity of 1.6 gallons. So, if you need a handy one, you can go for this super light and compact generator model.
Check the Current Price of the Honda EU3000i gas-powered portable generator.
Honda Power Equipment backs this 3000-watt generator with a 3-year warranty. This warranty covers both residential and commercial use.
Other Features
Honda EU3000iS generator also offers other features that will enhance your operation experience.
Control Panel
This Honda inverter generator has overload, oil alert, and output-ready LED light indicators. It also has a fuel valve, fuel gauge, and eco-throttle switch.
Honda EU3000iS comes with two 20A 125-Volt household outlets and a 125-Volt 30-Amp locking plug receptacle.
Economy Mode
Honda’s exclusive eco-throttle feature allows the engine to regulate engine speed according to the load.
This minimizes fuel consumption and increases the generator’s lifespan.
Parallel Capability
This inverter generator has parallel capability. You will need a parallel connection kit to use this feature.
You can connect two Honda EU3000iS inverter generators with parallel cables in a parallel connection kit.
You can also connect your Honda EU3000iS to an identical Honda inverter generator.
You get double power when operating with parallel capability. So, if two Honda EU3000iS generators get connected in parallel you will get 6000 peak watts and 5600 running watts.
This optional cable kit does not come in the box. So, if you intend to use it then you have to buy it separately.
Electric Starter
Electric start removes any hassle involved in starting the generator.
This generator comes with an electric start feature. It also has a recoil start as a backup and comes in handy in cases of emergencies.
Alternatives
If you still haven’t decided on Honda EU3000iS. You might want to check a few alternatives to Honda EU3000iS.
Choosing an alternative for a Honda generator was not easy for me. I have selected alternatives with a few extra features or different power ratings.
You can also check our guide to the best 3500-watt portable generator in case you need an extra 500 watts.
Westinghouse WGen3600 – Versatile and Efficient
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment has pioneered innovation in many sectors. They have been around for more than a century now.
Westinghouse portable generators are reliable and affordable. Westinghouse WGen3600 features a 212cc 4-stroke Westinghouse OHV engine.
This generator produces impressive 3600 rated watts and 4650 surge watts. It comes with a large 4-gallon fuel tank with a fuel gauge.
This Westinghouse generator can run for 14 hours at a quarter load on a single tank of gasoline.
This generator is EPA and CARB-compliant. It features Automatic Low Oil Shutdown, overload protection, and outlet covers.
This generator is powerful and produces 68 DB of operation noise. This is like a vacuum cleaner running.
But, it does not have CO Minder and Electric start. This generator comes with a 3-year residential and 1-year commercial warranty.
If you need a generator with dual-fuel technology with the same specs. Then Westinghouse WGen3600DF can be the one for you.
Westinghouse WGen3600DF also has added a push-button electric start and remote key FOB. FOB is Frequency Operated Button.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DF dual-fuel portable generator.
An option with added CO Sensor feature is also available i.e. Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv dual fuel generator with CO Sensor.
Weight: 105 lbs
Dimensions: 23.3” x 22.8” x 21.3” (L X W X H)
This generator comes with a lot of options. You can choose a generator model based on your dual fuel feature, electric start, remote start, and CO Sensor requirement.
This generator can power all your household equipment and power tools during a power outage.
This RV-ready generator can power your camping, tailgating, and other recreational activity experience.
Champion 3400-Watt – Cold Start
Champion Power Equipment has a reliable and versatile product line. They also have a very reasonable and affordable price range.
Champion 3400-watt generator features a 4-stroke 192cc champion engine. This generator produces 3400 surge power and 3100 rated power.
It comes with a fuel tank with a capacity of 1.6 gallons. It produces a noise level of 59 DB when operating at a quarter load.
This RV-ready generator gives 7.5 hours of power at a quarter load on a single tank of gas.
This 3400-watt inverter generator has an electric start and other important features.
It also has Champion’s exclusive cold start technology. This ensures an easy start in cold weather conditions.
Weight: 95.7 lbs
Dimensions: 25.1” x 17.3” x 18.3” (L X W X H)
This portable inverter generator is lightweight and has better portability. It comes with built-in never-flat wheels and a foldable handle.
Champion Support covers this generator with a 3-year limited warranty. They also offer lifetime technical support.
Champion generators are reliable and affordable. This generator can easily serve for your home backup, camping, etc power need.
Generac 7127 iQ3500 – Extra Power with PowerRush™
Since 1959, Generac Power System has led many innovations in the power tools sector. They were the first to engineer affordable home standby generators.
Generac 7127 is a 3500-watt gas-powered portable inverter generator. This features a 212cc Generac OHV engine with splash lubrication for a longer lifespan.
This Generac generator produces 3500 starting wattage and 3000 rated watts.
It has additional power i.e. 500 watts of starting power and 200 watts of running power compared to the Honda EU3000iS.
Generac 7127 comes with a 2.6 gallons capacity fuel tank. It can run for 14 hours on a single fuel tank at a quarter load.
Generac’s exclusive PowerRush™ technology ensures maximum output for each receptacle. When operating motor-driven tools the starting wattage crosses the 3500-watt mark.
This generator also features economy mode, inverter technology, electric start, fuel shutoff, etc.
This help to increase the overall durability and reliability of this portable generator.
Generac 7127 generator’s power panel comes with a Digital Smart LCD with an hour meter that tracks maintenance intervals.
Generac claims that this 7127 model has operation noise 40% lower than Honda EU3000iS. But, after testing one I found out that it has a similar noise level i.e. to a normal conversation.
Its steel enclosure design suppresses the engine noise to a great extent. This Generac 3500-watt generator is lighter than Honda EU3000is.
Weight: 109.1 lbs
Dimensions: 23.7” x 18” x 21.7” (L X W X H)
Generac 7127 3500-watt is an EPA and CARB-compliant generator. Generac Power System Covers this generator with a 3-year limited warranty.
This generator can be a good source of power for home backup. Its PowerRush™ technology makes it suitable for high-amperage power tools too.
WEN 56380i – Reliable and Affordable
WEN Products has been around since 1951. They have innovated a number of work tools to power tools.
WEN 56380i is an Rv-ready portable inverter generator. It comes equipped with a 212cc 4-stroke air-cooled OHV engine.
This generator uses inverter technology to create clean power with low THD for sensitive electronics. THD is Total Harmonic Distortion.
This WEN generator produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts of power on gasoline.
This power is good to run a variety of appliances. You can run a freezer, refrigerator, sump pump, coffee maker, electric stove, small air conditioning units, and other home essentials.
This WEN backup generator has a fuel tank capacity of 2.2 gallons. It can run up to 8.5 hours at half load on a single tank of gasoline.
WEN 56380i produces 57 DB of the sound level. This noise level is higher compares to the Honda EU3000iS generator.
WEN 56380i comes with an oil shutoff for longer engine life. It also features a keyless electric start.
This generator’s power panel features a digital command center. It improves your generator’s operation experience and maintenance.
Weight: 99.2 lbs
Dimensions: 23.2” x 18” x 20.1” (L X W X H)
This generator is a bit smaller and lighter than Generac 7127 from the alternatives. This generator is EPA and CARB-compliant.
WEN products back this generator with a 2-year warranty and technical assistance from exports.
This reliable generator has impressive power output and is low-priced. It can be a good backup power source for home backup, tailgating, camping, and job sites.
Conclusion – Should I buy it or Not
Honda Power Equipment is one of the most trusted generator brands out there. They have an expensive but feature-packed, durable, and reliable power product line.
After buying a portable generator, if things go south. Then it’s common to have a thought “I should have gone for the Honda one”.
Honda EU3000iS is an excellent portable inverter generator. It uses advanced inverter technology to produce clean power for computers, laptops, and other vulnerable electronics.
This generator comes packed with exclusive and impressive features from Honda. These features ensure a good user experience and convenience.
This generator uses a commercial GX200 engine that gives unbeatable durability and reliability.
This super quiet inverter generator produces just 50 DB of noise level when operating at quarter load. It is the quietest generator on this list.
Honda EU3000iS run time is better than all generators on this list. You can run a freezer, refrigerator, most 13,500 BTU RV AC units, and other power appliances.
But, This generator has the highest price compared to all the alternatives. It has also got a bit of weight and size due to the big fuel tank.
You also go for the handy version of the same generator i.e. Honda EU3000i. It is just 78 lbs and compact in size.
Check the Current Price of the Honda EU3000i handi gas-powered portable generator.
Also, all alternatives that I have selected in this Honda EU3000iS review are from renowned and trusted brands. Alternatives differ from Honda EU3000iS with features and power rating.
So, choose any generator that suits your backup power supply needs well. It will be equally worth it.
For example, if you need a generator with more power and a lower budget then Westinghouse WGen3600 can be the one for you.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600 gas-powered portable generator.
If you want to add dual-fuel and remote start to the above Westinghouse generator then go for Westinghouse WGen3600DF.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DF dual-fuel portable generator.
An option with added CO Sensor feature is also available i.e. Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv dual fuel generator with CO Sensor.
I have experienced that portable generators get delayed deliveries depending on manufacturers.
So, if you are planning to use it on a coming date (might be a date ❤️) then do check the delivery date once.
